“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Jesus said that you will have trouble in the world. Who likes tribulation and trials? However, Trouble will surely come to Christians. James said that “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” The reasons why we are in trouble are to produce perseverance and make us stand up.
Apostle Paul also suffered by many trials. When he was inspired by gospel, listened to the word of life and he was changed, even he changed his name from Saul to Paul. He could live comfortably as a Pharisee, but he chose the trials to cause the name of Jesus. He was inspired the unconditional love and grace of God then he offered his whole life to God.
In his life, he received the forty lashes minus one five times, was beaten with rods three times, also stoned, shipwrecked three times, labored and toiled without sleep. He was known hunger and thirst and he has been cold and naked. Although in his life was covered by so many kinds of suffering, but he knew that his final, conclusion of his life will be the victory.
Today Jesus said that “you may have trouble in the world. I have overcome the world.” In our life, there may have trouble, but we know what final conclusion. This is the victory. Jesus, he gave every person who believes in his name the power to become the Son of God and gave us eternal life. Also, he said that “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” He carries our burden for us with love and sacrifice.
In this world, for the Christian, there may be suffering and tribulation due to the name of Jesus. It’s Jesus already spoken to us. He also had spoken about the world of victory. Let’s walk the path of faith with his words of life.